Methods for manufacturing ultrasound transducers and other components

ABSTRACT

The disclosed technology features methods for the manufacture of electrical components such as ultrasound transducers. In particular, the disclosed technology provides methods of creating an ultrasonic transducer by connecting one or more multi-layer printed circuits to an array of ultrasound transducer elements. In one embodiment, the printed circuits have traces in a single layer that are spaced by a distance that is greater than a pitch of the transducer elements to which the multi-layer printed circuit is to be connected. However the traces from all the layers in the multi-layer printed circuit are interleaved to have a pitch that is equal to the pitch of the transducer elements. The disclosed technology also features ultrasound transducers produced by the methods described herein.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/657,783 filed Oct. 22, 2012 (U.S. Pat. No. 9,184,369), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/562,998 filed Sep. 18, 2009 (U.S. Pat. No. 8,316,518), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/192,661 and 61/192,690, both filed on Sep. 18, 2008 and all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSED TECHNOLOGY

The disclosed technology relates to the fields of manufacture of electrical components such as ultrasound transducers.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED TECHNOLOGY

In general, the disclosed technology provides methods for manufacturing electrical components, such as arrayed ultrasonic transducers.

As will be described in further detail below, the disclosed technology relates to making connections to between traces on a printed circuit and an array of transducer elements. In one embodiment, traces that carry signals to and receive signals from transducer elements are disposed on a printed flex circuit. Adjacent transducer elements to which the traces are to be connected are spaced closer together than the distance the minimum distance that can be achieved between the conductors on the printed flex circuit. Therefore, embodiments of the disclosed technology employ a multi-layer printed flex circuit having traces therein, whereby the distance between adjacent traces on any single layer of the multi-layer flex circuit are spaced farther apart than the distance between adjacent transducer elements in the transducer array. In one embodiment, a single multi-layer printed flex circuit is used to connect to one side of all of the ultrasound transducer elements. In another embodiment, two multi-layer printed flex circuits connect to opposite sides of the transducer elements so that one multi-layer printed flex circuit connects to the even numbered transducer elements while the other multi-layer printed flex circuit connects to the odd numbered transducer elements.

In one embodiment, a single four-layer printed flex circuit is used to connect to the transducer elements such that the traces on any given layer connect to every fourth transducer element on a side of an ultrasonic transducer. If two, four-layer printed flex circuits are used such that the traces on each printed flex circuit connect to only even or odd numbered transducer elements, then the traces on any given layer of a multi-layer printed flex circuit can be spaced by the distance between 8 transducer elements.

In one embodiment, the traces in each printed flex circuit are routed in a path that extends in a direction that is approximately parallel to the long length of the transducer array. In another embodiment, the traces in each printed flex circuit extend in a direction that is substantially aligned with the short length of the transducer array.

In one embodiment, the traces in the multi-layer printed flex circuits are connected to transducer elements by securing the multi-layer printed flex circuit to the ultrasound transducer with a particulate filled epoxy material. The epoxy material may be molded or machined to provide a smooth transition from the flex circuits to the transducer elements. Channels are then formed in the epoxy material between transducer elements and traces in the layers of the printed flex circuit. Once the channels have been created, the channels over the printed flex circuit and the ultrasound transducer are then coated with a metallic conductor and a resist. A laser is then used to remove the resist and expose the metallic conductor in areas where it is not wanted. An etch processes then removes most of the exposed metallic conductor and a laser can remove the remainder if necessary. The resist that is located over the areas where the metallic conductor is desired is then removed with a solvent. The remaining metallic conductor forms the electrical connections between the transducer elements and a corresponding traces in the multi-layer printed flex circuit.

Advantages of the disclosed technology will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed technology. The advantages of the disclosed technology will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosed technology, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary schematic piezoelectric stack (not to scale), showing a PZT layer, a ground electrode layer mounted to a portion of the top surface of the PZT layer and extending outwardly beyond the longitudinal edges of the PZT layer, a first and a second matching layer mounted on a portion of the top surface of the ground electrode layer, a lens, a fourth matching layer mounted to the bottom surface of the lens, a third matching layer mounted to a portion of the top surface of the second matching layer and the bottom of the fourth matching layer, and a dielectric layer underlying the inactive area of the transducer. Further showing a plurality of spacers formed thereon the top surface of the ground electrode layer that extend upwardly a predetermined distance relative to the top surface of the PZT layer such that the bottom surface of the fourth matching layer can be positioned at a desired distance relative to the PZT layer and the intervening first and second matching layers.

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary lens (not to scale).\

FIG. 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the PZT stack of FIG. 1 showing the active and inactive areas of the transducer.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the completed PZT stack shown mounted to a support member and showing the backing layer and dielectric layer. The signal electrodes (which are not shown herein but overlay portions of the dielectric layer between the array elements and the respective flex circuits) operatively couple the flex circuits to particular array elements defined therein the PZT stack and the ground electrodes are electrically coupled to the ground of the respective flex circuits.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the top of the PZT stack with matching layers 1 and 2 shown attached.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the top of the PZT stack with a copper foil mounted thereto with a conductive adhesive. Although the exemplified foil extends beyond the azimuth length of the PZT stack, these two end flaps are eventually removed in a subsequent fabrication step.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of top of the PZT stack of FIG. 6, with the end flaps of the copper foil removed.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the top of the PZT stack with lens mounted thereto.

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the top of the PZT stack showing the lens as a transparent layer in order to appreciate the alignment of the underlying layers as well as the relative alignment and positioning of the copper foil, the spacers, and the radius of curvature of the lens.

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the PZT stack after the PZT has been lapped to final target thickness and is ready to be integrated with the flex circuit to create the array assembly. In this embodiment, the remaining layers of the stack are completed afterwards.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic views of an exemplary kerf pattern to be machined into the PZT stack. In this aspect, the longer lines are representative of the first kerf slots between array elements, and the shorter lines are representative of the second kerf slots, i.e., the sub-dice kerfs.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are a schematic top plan view and a perspective view of a support member for use with the PZT stack of FIG. 10, showing a first longitudinally extending side edge portion and an opposed second longitudinally extending side edge portion, each side edge portion having a respective inner surface and an opposed outer surface, wherein a portion of the respective inner surfaces of the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions are configured so that a distal portion of a circuit board, such as, for example and without limitation, a flex circuit board, can be connected thereto, wherein the support member has a medial portion between the respective the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions that defines a central, longitudinally extending opening, wherein the PZT stack of FIG. 10 is configured to mount on a portion of the medial portion of the support member.

FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the support member of FIGS. 12A and 12B shown glued to the PZT stack of FIG. 10.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are schematic bottom plan views of the support member with the PZT stack fixedly mounted therein showing flex alignment features laser cut into the support structure and positioned with respect to the respective array kerfs. In one aspect, the flex alignment features on the right are offset relative to the features on the left by a distance substantially equal to the pitch of the array. An enlarged top plan view is also shown.

FIGS. 15A-15C are schematic bottom plan views of the support member with the PZT stack fixedly mounted therein showing how the flex circuit pair is aligned with respect to the array kerfs. The red bars represent the copper traces on the top side of the flex circuit.

FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the PZT stack after it is die attached to the two flex circuits.

FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an applied dielectric layer.

FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the finished dielectric layer. In this aspect, the dielectric layer defines the elevation dimension of the array and provides a smooth transitional surface from the flex to the stack in preparation for the deposition of the signal electrode.

FIG. 19 is a schematic of the signal electrode pattern of the signal electrode layer. In this example, the orange bars represent the removed electrode and the red bars represent the leadframe of each respective flex circuit. In this exemplary schematic, an additional electrode pattern above and below each flex circuit is shown.

FIGS. 20A and 20B are schematic views of the full signal electrode pattern for an exemplary 256 element transducer. The cyan box defines the active area of the PZT stack and the pink box defines the perimeter of the blanket signal electrode. The laser trimming (orange) extends beyond the Au perimeter such that each signal electrode is isolated.

FIG. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the application of the backing material.

FIGS. 22A and 22B are schematic cross-sectional views of the array assembly mounted thereon the support member and prior to the deposition of the signal electrode pattern. FIG. 22A represents the array assembly before the ground connection to the flex circuits has been made, and FIG. 22B represents the array assembly after the ground connection has been made such that the signal return path is completed.

FIG. 23 is a schematic view showing a pair of flex circuits connected to an exemplary PZT stack. In one exemplary embodiment, pin 1 (i.e., element 1) of the assembly is indicated and is connected to the flex circuit on the left of the array assembly. In this non-limiting example, the flex circuit to the left of the array assembly is connected to the odd elements, and the flex circuit to the right of the array assembly is connected to the even elements.

FIG. 24 shows an exemplary ultrasonic transducer assembly constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosed technology.

FIG. 25 is a close up view showing how transducer elements are electrically coupled to traces on a multi-layer printed flex circuit in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

FIGS. 26A and 26B are cross-sectional side views of a multi-layer printed flex circuit showing how connections are made to traces through an epoxy layer that covers a portion of the printed flex circuit.

FIG. 27 illustrates an ultrasound transducer that connects to a single multi-layer printed flex circuit in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosed technology.

FIG. 28 illustrates how individual connections between the traces in a multi-layer printed flex circuit and the transducer elements can have a width that is less than a width of a transducer element.

FIG. 29 illustrates a multi-layer printed flex circuit having traces that extend generally in the direction of the width of the transducer array in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosed technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED TECHNOLOGY

The disclosed technology features methods for the manufacture of electrical components such as ultrasound transducers. In particular, the disclosed technology provides methods of depositing materials, such as metals, on surfaces; methods of patterning electrodes, e.g., in the connection of an ultrasound transducer to an electrical circuit; and methods of making integrated matching layer for an ultrasound transducer. The disclosed technology also features ultrasound transducers produced by the methods described herein.

Deposition of Materials

The disclosed technology provides improved methods for the adhesion of materials to a surface, e.g., a thin film of metal or an adhesive such as epoxy. The method involves use of a substrate of a composite material. The composite material includes a matrix material and a particulate material, and the matrix material ablates at a lower laser fluence than the particulate material. When this substrate is ablated at an appropriate fluence, the matrix material is removed, but the particulate material is retained unless all matrix material surrounding the particles is removed. The result of the process is a highly three-dimensional surface formed by a combination of the matrix and partially exposed particulate material. The surface area of the new morphology is greatly increased compared to the unablated surface. A material, such as a metal or adhesive, is then deposited onto the ablated surface, and adhesion is increased because of the morphology created by ablation. The improved adhesion preferably allows for later ablation of the material in selected areas without delamination of the material in unablated areas. An exemplary matrix material is a polymer such as epoxy, and exemplary particulate materials are silica and silicon carbide. An exemplary metal for deposition is gold. An adhesion layer, e.g., containing chromium, may also be deposited for certain metals, such as gold, as is known in the art. Examples of conditions and uses of the method are provided herein.

Patterning of Electrodes

The disclosed technology also provides a method for patterning electrodes. This process can be used to connect any electrical component that can withstand the metallization step (highest temp ˜60-70° C.) directly to a flex or other circuit board type component. This method can be used to create features smaller than 5 μm over mm scale distances in X, Y, and Z.

In general, the method involves providing an electrical component needing the patterning of electrodes. The component is coated with a material, such as the composite material described above. This coating is generally ablated and selectively removed in the desired pattern of the electrodes. A conductive metal layer is then deposited over the ablated surface. A resist is then applied over the metal layer. Because the coating was removed in the pattern of the electrodes, the metal applied where the coating is removed is deposited in a trough or trench. These troughs or trenches are filled with resist, resulting in a thicker layer of resist overtop of the pattern of the electrodes. The resist is then removed from areas not forming part of the electrode pattern, and the metal is etched. Any remaining metal and the coating in these areas are then ablated. Finally, the resist may be removed, resulting in the electrode pattern. As is described in more detail herein, a portion of the electrical component, e.g., filler material in a kerf slot of a transducer, may be ablated to create a depression relative to the patterned electrodes. Ablation at relatively high fluence in these depressions may then be employed to remove extraneous metal left behind by previous steps. The depression protects the patterned electrodes from the byproducts of ablation, which would otherwise likely result in delamination.

An exemplary use of the method is in making electrical connections to an arrayed ultrasound transducer. Each element of an array is typically connected to a coaxial cable. At high frequencies (e.g., 20 MHz and up), the elements making up the array are typically too small and fragile for conventional wire bonding (which usually needs at least about 75 μm). In addition, thermal budgets required for wire bonding may also be problematic. For high frequency transducers, wet etching may also be ineffective because of the inability to hard bake resist because of thermal budgets, as the resist may dissolver prior to removal of the metal. Laser ablation of the electrode may also be problematic, as thin films can be removed, but frequently crack, and thicker films (>about 6000 Angstroms) providing crack resistance are prone to shorting because of splattering of metal during laser ablation. Also, the ablation process may cause collateral damage of the electrode. The method of disclosed technology, however, may be employed to make electrical connections with elements of an array, e.g., with a pitch of 25 μm or less (e.g., less than 15 μm).

A laser that can be used for ablation in conjunction with the disclosed technology is a short wavelength laser such as a KrF Excimer laser system (having, for example, about a 248 nm wavelength or an argon fluoride laser (having, for example, about a 193 nm wavelength). In another aspect, the laser used to cut the piezoelectric layer is a short pulse length laser. For example, lasers modified to emit a short pulse length on the order of ps to fs can be used. A KrF excimer laser system (UV light with a wavelength of about 248 nm) with a fluence range of about and between 0-20 J/cm² can be employed. Resist may be removed at a fluence below that required to remove the conductive material (e.g., less than 0.8 J/cm²). When it is desired to remove residual conductive metal, adhesion layers, and the composite material as described herein by ablation, the fluence may be between 0.8 to 1.0 J/cm². Ablation at higher fluences, e.g., up to 5 J/cm², may be employed to remove composite material (and underlying portions of an electrical component) located in depressions.

Further examples of conditions and uses of the method are provided herein.

Integrated Matching Layer

The disclosed technology also features a process for making an integrated matching layer. For high frequency applications, a lens for focusing an ultrasound array is often manufactured as a separate part, which must be attached to the transducer. At high frequencies, the use of adhesives to attached the lens is complicated by the need to reduce any bondline to less than approximately 1 μm for 20 MHz and thin for higher frequencies. Producing such bondlines presents challenges as follows: i) large voids are created, when a small generally spherical void in the adhesive is squeezed flat. Such voids can result from wetting issues on either surface or from small trapped voids in the adhesive. ii) Squeezing the bondline to such dimensions can interfere with the mobility of the molecules in the adhesive and compromise performance. iii) In order to press a bondline to the appropriate dimension, surplus adhesive must be squeezed out from in between the two parts being bonded. As the thickness of the bond decreases, the force required to overcome shear forces within the adhesive increases nonlinearly with the bond thickness and can quickly exceed acceptable force budgets for the stack and/or lens materials. In order to ensure that the bondline has no negative impact on the stack, the disclosed technology provides a method of making the bondline into a matching layer. This approach eliminates the need for an ultra thin layer and thus removes the concerns listed above.

The method employs spacers applied around the perimeter of the transducer, and then lapped to the desired final height of the integral matching layer. The matching layer is then made by curing the adhesive between the lens (and any matching layers attached to the lens) and the surface to which the spacers are attached. If particles are employed in the adhesive, e.g., to adjust the acoustical impedance, nano-particle dopants may be employed to ensure that the resulting uncured glue can be pressed down onto the spacers without more than a fraction of a micron error (due to particles being trapped between the top of the spacers, and the bottom of the lens). Spacers are desirably small to minimize trapping of powder, but large enough to be accurately lapped to height, e.g., about 0.25 to 0.75 mm in diameter. The clamping force required for this process is minimal, as the bondline is relatively thick, e.g., between 5 and 25 μm) in the desired frequency range. Examples of conditions and uses of the method are provided herein.

General Description of a Transducer

The disclosed technology will be further described with respect to ultrasound transducers that can be produce with the methods described herein. Components of the transducer stack, including piezoelectric layers, matching layers, lenses, and backing layers are known in the art and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,230,368, U.S. Publication No. 2007/0222339, U.S. Publication No. 2007/0205698, and U.S. Publication No. 2007/0205697.

In one aspect, an ultrasonic transducer includes a stack having a first face, an opposed second face, and a longitudinal axis Ls extending between. The stack includes a plurality of layers, each layer having a top surface and an opposed bottom surface. In one aspect, the plurality of layers of the stack includes a piezoelectric layer and a dielectric layer (which may be deposited and patterned as described herein). In one aspect, the dielectric layer is connected to and underlies at least a portion of the piezoelectric layer.

The plurality of layers of the stack can further include a ground electrode layer, a signal electrode layer, a backing layer, and at least one matching layer. Additional layers cut can include, but are not limited to, temporary protective layers (not shown), an acoustic lens, photoresist layers (not shown), conductive epoxies (not shown), adhesive layers (not shown), polymer layers (not shown), metal layers (not shown), and the like.

The piezoelectric layer can be made of a variety of materials. For example, materials that form the piezoelectric layer include ceramic, single crystal, polymer and co-polymer materials, ceramic-polymer and ceramic-ceramic composites with 0-3, 2-2 and/or 1-3 connectivity, and the like. In one example, the piezoelectric layer includes lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramic.

The dielectric layer can define the active area of the piezoelectric layer. The dielectric layer can be applied to the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer. In one aspect, the dielectric layer does not cover the entire bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer. In one aspect, the dielectric layer defines an opening or gap that extends a second predetermined length in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack. The opening in the dielectric layer is preferably aligned with a central region of the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer. The opening defines the elevation dimension of the array. In one aspect, each element of the array has the same elevation dimension, and the width of the opening is constant within the area of the piezoelectric layer reserved for the active area of the device that has formed kerf slots. In one aspect, the length of the opening in the dielectric layer can vary in a predetermined manner in an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stack resulting in a variation in the elevation dimension of the array elements.

The relative thickness of the dielectric layer and the piezoelectric layer and the relative dielectric constants of the dielectric layer and the piezoelectric layer define the extent to which the applied voltage is divided across the two layers. In one example, the voltage can be split at 90% across the dielectric layer and 10% across the piezoelectric layer. It is contemplated that the ratio of the voltage divider across the dielectric layer and the piezoelectric layer can be varied. In the portion of the piezoelectric layer where there is no underlying dielectric layer, then the full magnitude of the applied voltage appears across the piezoelectric layer. This portion defines the active area of the array. In this aspect, the dielectric layer allows for the use of a piezoelectric layer that is wider than the active area and allows for kerf slots to be made in the active area and extend beyond this area in such a way that array elements and array sub-elements are defined in the active area, but a common ground is maintained on the top surface.

A plurality of first kerf slots are defined therein the stack. Each first kerf slot extends a predetermined depth therein the stack and a first predetermined length in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack. The “predetermined depth” of the first kerf slot may follow a predetermined depth profile that is a function of position along the respective length of the first kerf slot. The first predetermined length of each first kerf slot is at least as long as the second predetermined length of the opening defined by the dielectric layer and is shorter than the longitudinal distance between the first face and the opposed second face of the stack in a lengthwise direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack. In one aspect, the plurality of first kerf slots define a plurality of ultrasonic array elements.

The ultrasonic transducer can also comprise a plurality of second kerf slots. In this aspect, each second kerf slot extends a predetermined depth therein the stack and a third predetermined length in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack. The “predetermined depth” of the second kerf slot can follow a predetermined depth profile that is a function of position along the respective length of the second kerf slot. The length of each second kerf slot is at least as long as the second predetermined length of the opening defined by the dielectric layer and is shorter than the longitudinal distance between the first face and the opposed second face of the stack in a lengthwise direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack. In one aspect, each second kerf slot is positioned adjacent to at least one first kerf slot. In one aspect, the plurality of first kerf slots define a plurality of ultrasonic array elements and the plurality of second kerf slots define a plurality of ultrasonic array sub-elements. For example, an array with one second kerf slot between two respective first kerf slots has two array sub-elements per array element. For a 64-element array with two sub-diced elements per array element, 129 respective first and second kerf slots are made to produce 128 piezoelectric sub-elements that make up the 64 elements of the array. It is contemplated that this number can be increased for a larger array. For an array without sub-dicing, 65 and 257 first kerf slots can be used for array structures with 64 and 256 array elements respectively. In one aspect, the first and/or second kerf slots can be filled with air. In an alternative aspect, the first and/or second kerf slots can also be filled with a liquid or a solid, such as, for example, a polymer.

Because neither the first or second kerf slots extend to either of the respective first and second faces of the stack, i.e., the kerf slots have an intermediate length, the formed array elements are supported by the contiguous portion of the stack near the respective first and second faces of the stack.

The piezoelectric layer of the stack can resonate at frequencies that are considered high relative to current clinical imaging frequency standards. In one aspect, the piezoelectric layer resonates at a center frequency of about 30 MHz. In other aspects, the piezoelectric layer resonates at a center frequency of about and between 10-200 MHz, preferably about and between, 20-150 MHz, and more preferably about and between 25-100 MHz.

Each of the plurality of ultrasonic array sub-elements has an aspect ratio of width to height of about and between 0.2-1.0, preferably about and between 0.3-0.8, and more preferably about and between 0.3-0.7. In one aspect, an aspect ratio of width to height of less than about 0.6 for the piezoelectric elements can be used. This aspect ratio, and the geometry resulting from it, helps to separate lateral resonance modes of an array element from the thickness resonant mode used to create the acoustic energy. Thus, the noted width to height ratios are configured to prevent any lateral resonant modes within the piezoelectric bar from interfering with the dominant thickness mode resonance. Similar cross-sectional designs can be considered for arrays of other types as understood by one skilled in the art. Each array element can comprise at least one sub-dice kerf, such that each array element will effectively include two or more bars, in which the signal electrodes for all bars of each respective element are electrically shorted together.

The width to height aspect ratio of the piezoelectric bar can also impact the directivity of the array element, i.e., the more narrow the width, the lower the directivity and the larger the steering angle of the array. For arrays with a pitch greater than about 0.5 lambda, the amplitude of the grating lobes produced for an aperture of driven elements will increase. Without limitation, various exemplary width/height aspect ratios of PZT bars can include:

Approx Frequency Pitch PZT Kerf Range (μm) (μm) (μm) W/H 13-24 MHz 90 75 10 0.53 18-42 MHz 75 51 8 0.58 18-42 MHz 60 45 5 0.55 22-55 MHz 55 39 5 0.58 22-55 MHz 55 39 5 0.58 30-70 MHz 38 25 3-4 0.56

The first and/or second kerf slots can be filled with air or with a liquid or a solid, such as a polymer. The filler can be a low acoustic impedance material that minimizes mechanical coupling between adjacent piezoelectric bars within the array structure. If selected, the low acoustic impedance material can have an acoustic response that is outside of the bandwidth of the piezoelectric bars to avoid any unwanted coupling with the piezoelectric bars. It will be appreciated that the choice of filler can influence the effective width of an array element, i.e., the effective width of the array element will be equal to, or larger than, the actual width of the array element due to any mechanical coupling between elements. Further, as the effective width increases, the directivity of the array element will increase slightly. For example, and not meant to be limiting, Epotek 301 and/or 301-2 epoxies, and the like, can be used as kerf filler materials.

The formation of sub-elements by “sub-dicing,” using a plurality of first and second kerf slots is a technique in which two adjacent sub-elements are electrically shorted together, such that the pair of shorted sub-elements act as one element of the array. For a given element pitch, which is the center to center spacing of the array elements resulting from the first kerf slots, sub-dicing allows for an improved element width to height aspect ratio such that unwanted lateral resonances within the element are shifted to frequencies outside of the desired bandwidth of the operation of the device.

In one aspect, the piezoelectric layer of the stack has a pitch of about and between 7.5-300 microns, preferably about and between 10-150 microns, and more preferably about and between 15-100 microns. In one example and not meant to be limiting, for a 30 MHz array design, the resulting pitch for a 1.5λ is about 74 microns.

At high frequencies, when the width of the array elements and of the kerf slots scale down to the order of 1-10's of microns, it is desirable in array fabrication to make narrow kerf slots. Narrowing the kerf slots can minimize the pitch of the array such that the effects of grating lobes of energy can be minimized during normal operation of the array device. Further, by narrowing the kerf slots, the element strength and sensitivity are maximized for a given array pitch by removing as little of the piezoelectric layer as possible. Using laser machining, the piezoelectric layer may be patterned with a fine pitch and maintain mechanical integrity.

As noted above, the plurality of layers can further include a signal electrode layer and a ground electrode layer. The electrodes can be defined by the application of a metallization layer that covers the dielectric layer and the exposed area of the piezoelectric layer. The electrode layers can comprise any metalized surface as would be understood by one skilled in the art. A non-limiting example of electrode material that can be used is Nickel (Ni). A metalized layer of lower resistance (at 1-100 MHz) that does not oxidize can be deposited by thin film deposition techniques such as sputtering (evaporation, electroplating, etc.). A Cr/Au combination (300/3000 Angstroms respectively) is an example of such a lower resistance metalized layer, although thinner and thicker layers can also be used. The Cr is used as an interfacial adhesion layer for the Au. As would be clear to one skilled in the art, it is contemplated that other conventional interfacial adhesion layers well known in the semiconductor and microfabrication fields can be used. Signal electrodes can be patterned as described herein.

The plurality of layers of the stack can further include at least one matching layer having a top surface and an opposed bottom surface. In one aspect, the plurality of layers includes two such matching layers. At least a portion of the bottom surface of the first matching layer can be connected to at least a portion of the top surface of the piezoelectric layer. If a second matching layer is used, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the second matching layer is connected to at least a portion of the top surface of the first matching layer. The matching layer(s) can be at least as long as the second predetermined length of the opening defined by the dielectric layer in a lengthwise direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack. Methods for producing integrated matching layers are described herein.

The matching layer(s) can have a thickness that is usually equal to about or around ¼ of a wavelength of sound, at the center frequency of the device, within the matching layer material itself. The specific thickness range of the matching layers depends on the actual choice of layers, their specific material properties, and the intended center frequency of the device. In one example and not meant to be limiting, for polymer based matching layer materials, and at 30 MHz, this results in a preferred thickness value of about 15-25 μm.

In one aspect, the acoustic impedance of a matching layer can be between 8-9 Mrayl; in another aspect, the impedance can be between 3-10 Mrayl; and, in yet another aspect, the impedance can be between 1-33 Mrayl.

The plurality of layers of the stack can further include a backing layer having a top surface and an opposed bottom surface. In one aspect, the backing layer substantially fills the opening defined by the dielectric layer. In another aspect, at least a portion of the top surface of the backing layer is connected to at least a portion of the bottom surface of the dielectric layer. In a further aspect, substantially all of the bottom surface of the dielectric layer is connected to at least a portion of top surface of the backing layer. In yet another aspect, at least a portion of the top surface of the backing layer is connected to at least a portion of the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer.

The matching and backing layers can be selected from materials with acoustic impedance between that of air and/or water and that of the piezoelectric layer. In addition, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, an epoxy or polymer can be mixed with metal and/or ceramic powder of various compositions and ratios to create a material of variable acoustic impedance and attenuation. Any such combinations of materials are contemplated in this disclosure. The choice of matching layer(s), ranging from 1-6 discrete layers to one gradually changing layer, and backing layer(s), ranging from 0-5 discrete layers to one gradually changing layer alters the thickness of the piezoelectric layer for a specific center frequency.

In one aspect, the backing layer of the transducer can be configured such that the acoustic energy that travels downwards towards the backing layer when the piezoelectric element is electrically excited, or operated in receive mode, is absorbed by the backing material to avoid any unnecessary acoustic reflections within the thickness of the ultrasonic transducer stack. In one aspect, to effect the desired absorption of the acoustic energy that enters the backing material, a single backing material that has a high acoustic attenuation is configured to be sufficiently thick such that the layer acts as an infinitely thick layer. If more than a single backing layer is contemplated, to adjust the bandwidth and/or the characteristic frequency response of the transducer in any way, then the acoustic impedances are to be chosen accordingly. In one exemplary aspect, the backing layer can comprise a powder-doped epoxy.

In one aspect, a lens can be positioned in substantial overlying registration with the top surface of the layer that is the uppermost layer of the stack. The lens can be used for focusing the acoustic energy. The lens can be made of a polymeric material as would be known to one skilled in the art. In one preferred aspect, the lens can be made of a material that is well matched to water and has a low acoustic loss. For example, a preformed or prefabricated piece of Rexolite which has three flat sides and one curved face can be used as a lens. The radius of curvature (R) is determined by the intended focal length of the acoustic lens. For example not meant to be limiting, the lens can be conventionally shaped using computerized numerical control equipment, laser machining, molding, and the like. In one aspect, the radius of curvature is large enough such that the width of the curvature (WC) is at least as wide as the opening defined by the dielectric layer. Exemplary lens materials are polymethylpentene (e.g., TPX®) and cross-linked polystyrene (e.g., Rexolite®).

The speed of sound of Rexolite is greater than the speed of sound in water; therefore, the lens is formed with a concave surface. The radius of curvature of the lens defines the elevation focal depth of the array. For a focal length of 10 mm, the radius of curvature (R)=3.65 mm. In a further aspect, the maximum depth of the curvature of the lens can be minimized to avoid trapping air pockets in the acoustic gel used during imaging. In an additional aspect, the thinnest cross-sectional portion of the lens can be made as thin as possible such that the internal acoustic reflection that forms at the front face of the lens will remain temporally close to the primary pulse. In a further aspect, the thinnest cross-sectional portion of the lens can be thick enough to pass IEC patient leakage current tests for BF and/or CF rating. In yet another aspect, the curvature of the lens can extend beyond the active area of the array in order to avoid any unwanted diffraction due to a lens boundary discontinuity. Exemplary focal depths and radius of curvature of an exemplary Rexolite lens are:

Rexolite Approx Frequency Radius of Range Lens Focal Depth Curvature 13-24 MHz 15 mm  5.45 mm 18-42 MHz 10 mm  3.65 mm 18-42 MHz 9 mm 3.30 mm 22-55 MHz 7 mm 2.55 mm 22-55 MHz 6 mm 2.20 mm 30-70 MHz 5 mm 1.85 mm

In one preferred aspect, the minimum thickness of the lens substantially overlies the center of the opening or gap defined by the dielectric layer. Further, the width of the curvature is greater than the opening or gap defined by the dielectric layer. In one aspect, the length of the lens can be wider than the length of a kerf slot allowing for all of the kerf slots to be protected and sealed once the lens is mounted on the top of the transducer device.

At least one first kerf slot can extend through or into at least one layer to reach its predetermined depth/depth profile in the stack. Some or all of the layers of the stack can be cut through or into substantially simultaneously. Thus, a plurality of the layers can be selectively cut through substantially at the same time. Moreover, several layers can be selectively cut through at one time, and other layers can be selectively cut through at subsequent times, as would be clear to one skilled in the art. In one aspect, at least a portion of at least one first and/or second kerf slot extends to a predetermined depth that is at least 60% of the distance from the top surface of the piezoelectric layer to the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer, and at least a portion of at least one first and/or second kerf slot can extend to a predetermined depth that is 100% of the distance from the top surface of the piezoelectric layer to the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer.

At least a portion of at least one first kerf slot can extend to a predetermined depth into the dielectric layer and at least a portion of one first kerf slot can also extend to a predetermined depth into the backing layer. As would be clear to one skilled in the art, the predetermined depth into the backing layer can vary from 0 microns to a depth that is equal to or greater than the thickness of the piezoelectric layer itself. Laser micromachining through the backing layer can provide a significant improvement in isolation between adjacent elements. In one aspect, at least a portion of one first kerf slot extends through at least one layer and extends to a predetermined depth into the backing layer. As described herein, the predetermined depth into the backing layer may vary. The predetermined depth of at least a portion of at least one first kerf slot can vary in comparison to the predetermined depth of another portion of that same respective kerf slot or to a predetermined depth of at least a portion of another kerf slot in a lengthwise direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack. In another aspect, the predetermined depth of at least one first kerf slot can be deeper than the predetermined depth of at least one other kerf slot.

As described above, at least one second kerf slot can extend through at least one layer to reach its predetermined depth in the stack as described above for the first kerf slots. The second kerf slots can extend into or through at least one layer of the stack as described above for the first kerf slots. If layers of the stack are cut independently, each kerf slot in a given layer of the stack, whether a first or second kerf slot can be in substantial overlying registration with its corresponding slot in an adjacent layer.

A transducer may also include a support member to provide mechanical support for the various components of the transducers and to aid in the fabrication process.

The disclosed technology will now be described with respect to the transducer configurations shown generally in FIGS. 1-23. An ultrasonic transducer includes a stack 800 having a first face 802, an opposed second face 804, and a longitudinal axis Ls extending between. The stack has a plurality of layers, each layer having a top surface 828 and an opposed bottom surface 830. The plurality of layers of the stack includes, for example, a piezoelectric layer 806, a dielectric layer 808, and a plurality of matching layers. The dielectric layer may be connected to and underlie at least a portion of the piezoelectric layer. In one example, the plurality of matching layers includes four matching layers in the stack.

The plurality of layers of the stack can further include a ground electrode layer 810 that is disposed on the top surface of the piezoelectric layer, a signal electrode layer 812, and a backing layer 814.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the transducer stack defines an active area and an inactive area, in which a dielectric layer is provided under the ground electrode that acts as a potential divider and limits the voltage applied across the piezoelectric layer. In the figure, the stack includes the following layers in the active area (from top to bottom):

Zac 20 MHz 30 MHz 30 MHz 40 MHz 50 MHz Layer Material (MRayl) (μm) (μm) (Am) (μm) (μm) Lens Rexolite 2.47 250 mm (Minimum thickness) 4^(th) Matching CA 2.69 26.9 um 17.9 um 17.9 um 13.4 um 10.8 um Layer 3^(rd) Matching SiC 3.45 33.1 um 22.1 um 22.1 um 16.6 um 13.3 um Layer Epoxy 2^(nd) W/SiC 5.50 26.3 um 17.5 um 17.5 um 13.1 um 10.5 um Matching Epoxy Layer 1^(st) Matching W 11.05 21.3 um 14.2 um 14.2 um 10.6 um  8.5 um Layer Epoxy Electrode Au 62.60 Thin Layer ~8000 Å Ground Piezoelectric PZT 33   75 um   51 um   45 um   39 um   25 um Signal Au 62.60 ~10000 Å Electrode Backing PZT 8.50 >5 mm Epoxy In the inactive area, the stack transducer includes the following layers (from top to bottom):

Zac 20 MHz 30 MHz 30 MHz 40 MHz 50 MHz Layer Material (MRayl) Thicknesses Thicknesses Thicknesses Thicknesses Thicknesses Lens Rexolite 2.47 <0.5 mm 4^(th) Matching CA 2.69 26.9 um 17.9 um 17.9 um 13.4 um 10.8 um Layer Copper Foil Copper N/A   20 um   20 um   20 um   20 um   20 um 3^(rd) Matching SiC 3.45 As required As required As required As required As required Layer Epoxy for active for active for active for active for active area area area area area thickness to thickness to thickness to thickness to thickness be achieved be achieved be achieved be achieved to be achieved 2^(nd) W/SiC 5.50 26.3 um 17.5 um 17.5 um 13.1 um 10.5 um Matching Epoxy Layer 1^(st) Matching W 11.05 21.3 um 14.2 um 14.2 um 10.6 um  8.5 um Layer Epoxy Ground Au 62.60 Thin Layer ~8000 Å Electrode Copper N/A Foil ~15-25 um thick Dielectric Silica N/A >20 um Epoxy Piezoelectric PZT 33   75 um   51 um   45 um   39 um   25 um Signal Au 62.60 ~10000 Å Electrode Backing PZT 8.50 >5 mm Epoxy

The piezoelectric layer 806 can be made of a variety of materials. For example and not meant to be limiting, materials that form the piezoelectric layer can include ceramic, single crystal, polymer and co-polymer materials, ceramic-polymer and ceramic-ceramic composites with 0-3, 2-2 and/or 3-1 connectivity, and the like. In one example, the piezoelectric layer includes lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramic.

As shown in FIGS. 6-7, the inner edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes can have a saw-tooth or stepped design that aids in avoiding any fault lines when the ground electrode is bonded to the piezoelectric layer. In a further aspect, the outer edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes are configured to extend beyond the respective longitudinal face edges of the piezoelectric layer so that they can be positioned as desired in electrical communication with a circuit board to form the desired ground connection. Thus, in one aspect, part of the ground electrode layer typically remains exposed in order to allow for the signal ground to be connected from the ground electrode to the circuit board.

In a further aspect, the inner edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes are spaced from each other a distance sufficient for respective first and second matching layers to be mounted sequentially on the top surface of the piezoelectric layer between the inner edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes. In this aspect, the longitudinally extending edges of the first and second matching layers 816, 826 can be spaced from the inner edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes. Optionally, a plurality of spacers 900 can be provided that are positioned outside of the acoustic field as defined by the active area of the stack onto portions of the top surface of the respective first and second ground electrodes. Each spacer 900 extends upwardly a predetermined distance relative to the top surface of the piezoelectric layer such that the bottom surface of a fourth matching layer 846 can be positioned at a desired distance relative to the piezoelectric layer and the intervening first and second matching layers. In this aspect, one spacer can be positioned or formed on the inwardly extending portion of the saw-tooth inner edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes. In one aspect, upon completion of the assembly of the stack, the spacing generated by the spacers 900 is equal to the thickness of a third matching layer 836 of the stack. It is contemplated that the spacers can be made from any material that can be lapped down to, or built up to, the target thickness.

In one exemplary aspect, the dielectric material includes silica doped Epotek 301 epoxy, which has a low relative dielectric constant of about 4 and provides strong adhesion for sputtered gold when the dielectric surface is treated with low fluence UV light and/or plasma. In a further aspect, the thickness of the dielectric can be at least 10 μm, preferably at least 10 μm, and more preferably at least 20 μm. Optionally, the edge of the dielectric layer can be sloped, with respect to the cross-sectional plane, to provide some apodization and to help suppress side lobes in elevation. The exact shape of the slope will be selected by one skilled in art based on the desired effect on the ultrasound wave. In another aspect, the width of the gap in the doped epoxy dielectric layer, which defines the elevation dimension of the array, can preferably be between about 0.5 mm-3.5 mm, more preferably between about 0.75 mm-3.0 mm, and most particularly between about 1.0 mm-3.0 mm.

The plurality of layers of the stack can further include at least one matching layer having a top surface and an opposed bottom surface. In a further aspect, the acoustic impedance of each matching layer can be configured such that the acoustic impedance monotonically decreases from the first matching layer above the piezoelectric to the top matching layer just underneath the lens. In one exemplary aspect, at least one of the matching layers is polymer based. It is also contemplated that all of the matching layers can be polymer based. In a further aspect, the exemplary plurality of matching layers can result in a substantially smooth pulse response with no perceivable phase discontinuities. The smooth nature of the pulse response means that there is a predictable relationship between the time and frequency response of the transducer.

In one exemplary illustrated aspect, the plurality of matching layers comprises four such matching layers. In one exemplary aspect, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first matching layer 816 can be connected to at least a portion of the top surface of the ground electrode layer, which is, as described above, mounted thereon the top surface of the piezoelectric layer. At least a portion of the bottom surface of the second matching layer 826 is connected to at least a portion of the top surface of the first matching layer. The first and second matching layers can be at least as long as the second predetermined length of the opening defined by the dielectric layer in a lengthwise direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stack.

As shown in FIGS. 8-9, a lens 809 can be positioned in substantial overlying registration with the top surface of the matching layer that is the uppermost layer of the stack. In this aspect, the lens is a fixed lens that can be used for focusing the acoustic energy. For example, a preformed or prefabricated piece of Rexolite, which can have three flat sides and one curved face, can be used as a lens. In a further aspect, the fixed lens 809 provides a means for focusing in elevation. The thickness of the lens can be thicker than the piezoelectric or matching layers.

In one aspect, a top surface of a fourth matching layer 846 is bonded to the bottom, flat face of the lens. In the embodiment in which the lens is formed from Rexolite, the fourth matching layer 846 can be made from cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesive, which is a low acoustic material that can be reliably bonded to the Rexolite lens, as described in U.S. Publication No. 2007/0205698. Of course, it is contemplated that any low impedance material that can be reliably bonded to the material of the desired lens can be used. In one further aspect, it is preferred that the bottom surface of the CA layer, i.e., the fourth matching layer, is adhesively coupled to the top surface of the second matching layer. In this aspect, of the bottom surface of the fourth matching layer are seated on the top surface of the plurality of spacers such that the lens can be positioned/spaced as the desired distance from the second matching layer. In this aspect, the adhesive layer provides for bonding the lens to the stack.

The applied adhesive layer can also act as the third matching layer 836 provided that the thickness of the adhesive layer applied to the bottom face of the lens is of an appropriate wavelength in thickness (such as, for example and not meant to be limiting, ¼ wavelength in thickness). In this example, it is contemplated that the choice of powder and concentration of powder is selected to adjust the acoustic impedance to match the desired acoustic profile. One skilled in the art will appreciate that Epotek 301 epoxy, Epotek 301-2 epoxy, and the like can be used as the adhesive layer to form the noted third matching layer. Epotek 301 epoxy has an acoustic impedance of 2.9 Mrayl in its pure state and can be doped with powders of different composition and size to create a 0-3 composite material that can be configured to have a desirable acoustic impedance by controlling the density and speed of sound. In this exemplary aspect, the layer of CA acts as one of the matching layers of the transducer. Thus, in one non-limiting example, the plurality of matching layers can comprise a layer of CA and three underlying matching layers can comprise powder loaded Epotek 301 epoxy, Epotek 301-2 epoxy, and the like.

In a further aspect, prior to mounting the lens onto the stack, the CA layer and the lens can be laser cut, which effectively extends the array kerfs (i.e., the first and/or second array kerf slots), and in one aspect, the sub-diced or second kerfs, through both matching layers (or if two matching layers are used) and into the lens. If the CA and lens are laser cut, a pick and place machine (or an alignment jig that is sized and shaped to the particular size and shape of the actual components being bonded together) can be used to align the lens in both X and Y on the uppermost surface of the top layer of the stack. To laser cut the CA and lens, laser fluence of approximately 0.5-5 J/cm² can be used.

In various exemplary aspects, arrays have the following acoustic design characteristics:

Center Frequency 20 MHz 30 MHz 30 MHz 40 MHz 40 MHz 50 MHz Elements 256 256 256 256 256 256 Pitch 90 um 75 um 60 um 55 um 55 um 38 um (1.2 (1.5 (1.2 (1.4 (1.4 (1.2 lambda) lambda) lambda) lambda) lambda) lambda) Elevation 2.8 mm 2.0 mm 2.0 mm 1.4 mm 1.2 mm 1.0 mm Focal 15 mm 10 mm 9 mm 7 mm 6 mm 5 mm Depth Pulse 60 ns 45 ns 45 ns 35 ns 35 ns 35 ns Response (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) 120 ns 90 ns 85 ns 70 ns 70 ns 70 ns (−20 dB) (−20 dB) (−20 dB) (−20 dB) (−20 dB) (−20 dB) 2-Way >65% >65% >65% >65% >65% >65% Bandwidth (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) (−6 dB) Directivity >+/−15° >+/−15° >+/−15° >+/−15° >+/−15° >+/−15°

Example 1 Patterning of Electrodes

A flex circuit is placed on a 45 degree inclined plane with respect to the plane of an ultrasound array, and each finger of the flex is lined up with a corresponding array element. Two pieces of flex, one on each side of the array, are staggered, so that each flex is twice the pitch of the array. The flex is permanently attached in this position. The whole assembly is filled with a silica particle filled epoxy that covers all of the flex fingers. The epoxy is shaped to form a smooth internal profile over the all of the array, so that there are no sudden transitions from one surface to another.

An excimer laser is then used (e.g., 248 nm) to selectively expose the active region of the array by removing the particle/epoxy from the surface of the piezoelectric, e.g., PZT along each element, using a fluence that does not ablate the piezoelectric, but does remove the epoxy mixture. A ridge of kerf width is left between each element in the active area. The epoxy mixture is then removed from over the flex fingers, exposing the copper of the flex. Trenches are then made from each element to its respective finger. The transducer is sputtered, covering the entire inner surface with 1 μm of gold. Any standard metal could be used. A chromium adhesion layer may be used in conjunction with gold deposition. The laser ablation of the epoxy mixture and laser activation of the piezoelectric improve the adhesion of the metal.

A standard positive photoresist is coated onto the gold. Because of the trenches and ridges, the resist pools thickly in the trenches and remains thin on the high areas. The resist is allowed to dry but is not hard baked. The laser set to a very low fluence (about 0.3 J/cm²) is used to remove the resist without damaging the gold underneath. This is important, since ablation of the gold directly will typically cause collateral damage to the electrode left behind. Having thus exposed the negative of the electrode pattern in the resist, the gold is etched using a standard wet gold etching process at slightly elevated temperatures of up to 50° C. for a few minutes. The result of this is to have removed almost all of the gold down to the Cr/Au alloy region that is only about 300 Angstroms thick.

The laser is used at a slightly higher fluence to remove the remaining metal, e.g., about 0.8 J/cm². This fluence will remove the remaining metal and created a trench in the epoxy under the gold layer. In the active area where the kerfs are less than 5 μm, a third, high fluence pass (e.g., at about 3 J/cm²) may be used to remove shorts. The trench made with the 0.8 J/cm² pass acts as a guide for the plasma caused by the laser pulses, thereby preventing collateral damage of the electrode that would be caused by using a high fluence initially. After the final laser pass, a short wet etch can be used to de-burr the laser cut edges. Finally the resist is removed by dissolving in a suitable solvent at room temperature.

Example 2 Coupling a Transducer to Circuit

FIGS. 4-23 illustrate a methodology of preparing the transducer stack described above and operably coupling the transducer stack to a circuit board. Any of the embodiments described in the following may be employed generally with any method of the disclosed technology.

The piezoelectric layer, with a metalized ground electrode layer (not shown) coupled to the top surface of the piezoelectric layer, is initially blocked and its bottom surface is lapped conventionally to a first desired thickness in a first step. In one aspect, the first desired thickness is typically not the final thickness, but is rather a thickness that allows the continued working of the piezoelectric layer. In a second step, the first matching layer 816 is applied to a portion of the top surface of the metalized ground electrode layer and, after curing, is lapped to a target thickness. In step, the second matching layer 826 is applied to a portion of the top surface of the first matching layer and is subsequently lapped to a target thickness after curing. In one aspect, both the first and second matching layers are positioned substantially in the center of the piezoelectric layer and extend on the top surface of the piezoelectric layer between the elongate edges of the piezoelectric layer. The longitudinally extending edges of the first and second matching layers 816, 826 can be spaced from the longitudinally extending edges of the piezoelectric layer.

Subsequently, a copper foil 910 is coupled, for example with a conductive adhesive, to a portion of the top surface of the metalized ground electrode layer. As shown in FIG. 6, the copper foil is positioned to surround the first and second matching layers circumferentially. In a further aspect, the copper foil 910, which defines the respective first and second ground electrodes, is also positioned such that the inner edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes are spaced from the longitudinally extending edges of the respective first and second matching layers. Still further, the outward edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes extend outwardly beyond the longitudinal faces of the piezoelectric layer so that they can be operatively coupled to the ground of the circuit board in a latter step of the fabrication process. In a further aspect, as noted in the figure, the inner edges of the first and second ground electrodes can have a saw-tooth pattern that extends beyond the longitudinal faces of the piezoelectric layer so that the respective first and second ground electrodes can be readily bent along the respective longitudinal faces of the piezoelectric layer. As shown in FIG. 7, the respective ends of the copper foil are subsequently removed to physically separate the respective first and second ground electrodes. In one aspect, a contiguous copper foil is useful for the bonding of the copper foil to the piezoelectric layer. Optionally, the individual first and second ground electrodes could be mounted to the piezoelectric layer individually, which would result in the same structure as shown in FIG. 7. The first and second ground electrodes effectively act as extensions of the metalized ground electrode layer.

In another aspect, to achieve a desired standoff from the top surface of the respective first and second ground electrodes, a plurality of spacers 900 are positioned on portions of the top surface of the respective first and second ground electrodes 850 and 860. The plurality of spacers 900 can be in the form of pillars or dots that are positioned about the full perimeter of the piezoelectric layer. In another aspect, the plurality of spacers 900 can be positioned on portions of the top surface of the respective first and second ground electrodes adjacent to the inner edges of the respective first and second ground electrodes. In yet another aspect, the plurality of spacers can be positioned outwardly from the active area of the stack, i.e., in the inactive area of the stack. The spacers can be made from any conventional material that can be lapped to the desired target thickness.

The fourth matching layer 846 is adhesively coupled to the lens 809 and is subsequently allowed to cure prior to being lapped to the desired target thickness. In one exemplary aspect, the lens can include Rexolite, and the fourth matching layer can include a CA adhesive. In a further aspect, the fourth matching layer can be applied to a Rexolite blank and can be lapped to the desired target thickness prior to machining the Rexolite blank into a lens.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 8-10, the fourth matching layer 846 is positioned on the top surfaces of the plurality of spacers to ensure that the adhesive that is used to bond the lens/fourth matching layer will form the third matching layer 836, which can have a desired target thickness as the adhesive cures. In another aspect, the bonded lens/fourth matching layer can be positioned in the substantial center of the stack in desired registration with the piezoelectric layer.

Referring now to FIG. 11, in one aspect, the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer can be lapped to a desired thickness prior to the formation of the first and second kerf slots. The first and second kerf slots are formed to the desired depth in the stack. The first and second kerf slots are machined in the stack from the bottom side of the stack. In one aspect, the first and second kerf slots are laser machined into the stack using a laser fluence of about and between 3-10 J/cm² and preferably about 5 J/cm². This laser fluence is adequate to create the kerf aspect ratios that are desired in the piezoelectric layer of the stack.

Further, in one aspect, a pin marker fiducial can be scribed on the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer by, for example and not meant to be limiting, laser machining. The pin marker fiducial can be, for example, at least one marking, such as a plurality of crosses. The pin marker, if used, can be used to correctly orient the stack with respect to the flex circuit in a subsequent downstream fabrication process. In a further aspect, the pin marker fiducial should extend into the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer a depth that is sufficient for the pin marker fiducial to remain visible as the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer is lapped to its final target thickness. It is preferred that the etch pattern of the pin marker fiducial extend substantially straight down such that the width of the pin marker fiducial does not change when the bottom surface of the piezoelectric lapped.

As shown in FIG. 11, in a further aspect, laser alignment markers 930 can be scribed on the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer by, for example, laser machining. The laser alignment markers 930 can be at least two markings, such as two crosses, one at either end of the stack. The laser alignment markers 930, if used, can be used to assist in the alignment and/or registration of the stack in subsequent downstream fabrication processes. In a further aspect, the alignment markers should extend into the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer a depth that is sufficient for the markers to remain visible as the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer is lapped to its final target thickness. It is preferred that the etch pattern of the laser alignment markers extend substantially straight down such that the width of the laser registration marker does not change when the bottom surface of the piezoelectric is lapped.

Optionally, the formed first and second kerf slots are filled as described above and the fill material is allowed to cure. Subsequently, the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer is lapped to its final target thickness, which results in a cross sectional view of the stack that is illustrated in FIG. 10. One will appreciate that at this stage of the fabrication process, the dielectric layer, the signal electrode layer, and the backing layer have not been formed.

Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, an exemplary embodiment of a support member 940 is shown. The support member has a first longitudinally extending side edge portion 942 and an opposed second longitudinally extending side edge portion 944, each side edge portion having a respective inner surface 946 and an opposed outer surface 948, wherein a portion of the respective inner surfaces of the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions are configured so that a distal portion of a circuit board, such as a flex circuit board, or circuit board pair, such as shown in FIG. 23, can be connected thereto. Other flex designs with fewer traces can be used. For example, more flex circuits would be required to sum up to a total of 256 traces. The support member also has a medial portion extending between the respective the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions that define a central, longitudinally extending opening. The medial portion also provides mechanical strength and integrity to the support, necessary since the support, when bonded to the stack, will provide the mechanical support to prevent the stack from warping during the remainder of the assembly process. In one aspect, the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions 942, 944 can be positioned at an acute angle relative to each other or, optionally, they can be positioned substantially parallel to each other or co-planar to each other.

In one exemplary aspect, a plurality of circuit alignment features 960, such as the exemplified score lines illustrated in FIGS. 10-15, are cut or otherwise conventionally formed into portions of the bottom surface of the medial portion of the support member. In this aspect, the plurality of circuit alignment features can be positioned such that they are adjacent to and/or extend to the respective first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions and/or the opening of the support member. One will appreciate that the plurality of circuit alignment features allows for the correct positioning of the distal portion of the lead frame (signal traces) of a circuit board, or circuit board pair, with respect to the first kerf slots cut within the stack. It is contemplated that the plurality of circuit alignment features on opposing sides of the opening of the support member are offset relative to each other by a distance equal to the pitch of the transducer array to allow for an alternating signal electrode pattern to be formed between the circuit board or circuit board pair and the array elements. In one aspect, the plurality of alignment features 960 can be formed in a separate step subsequent to mounting the stack to the support member. Optionally the plurality of alignment features can be formed prior to fixedly mounting the stack to the support member provided that the support can be mounted to the stack with adequate registration.

As shown in FIG. 13, the transducer stack is fixedly mounted thereto at least a portion of the top surface of the medial portion of the support member 940, and circuit alignment features are formed such that the circuit alignment features are positioned in registration with the array kerfs of the piezoelectric layer. In one aspect, the stack assembly can be adhesively bonded to the support member. It is contemplated that, in one aspect, the plurality of alignment features 960 can be formed in the support member in a separate step subsequent to fixedly mounting the stack to the support member. Optionally, the plurality of alignment features can be formed therein the support member prior to fixedly mounting the stack to the support member.

The respective bottom surface of the distal ends of the circuit boards, such as the flex circuit 950 shown in FIG. 16, are connected to the respective inner surfaces 946 of the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions 942, 944. In one aspect, the flex circuit can be coupled to the support member by use of an adhesive, such as CA adhesive. The respective flex circuits are fixedly mounted to the respective inner surfaces of the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions in registration with the plurality of circuit alignment features 960 to insure that the circuits on the respective circuit boards are aligned with the kerfs of the array transducer to within less than about a 0.5 pitch tolerance.

As shown in FIG. 17, a dielectric layer (e.g., a composite material as described herein) can be applied to the bottom portion of the array. In an optional step, the fiducial marking can be masked off prior to the application of the dielectric layer. In one aspect, the dielectric material can extend to cover the lead frame of the flex circuit, or flex circuit pair attached to the support frame. In one aspect, it is contemplated that the dielectric material could be applied separately from the dielectric material if so desired. In a further aspect, the profile of the dielectric layer is centered relative to the short axis of the piezoelectric stack, and it is configured such that the thickness of the dielectric layer that overlies the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer meets the minimum electrical requirements to deactivate the piezoelectric. In another aspect, the dielectric layer can be configured such that the surface transition from the flex circuit to the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer has a controlled cross-sectional profile that is void of sharp edges or undercuts in preparation for the deposition of the signal electrode layer. The transition of the dielectric from zero to target thickness allows for a relatively uniform thickness temporary conformal coating, such as, for example and not meant to be limiting, a resist material, to be applied on top of a blanket signal electrode layer, which allows for the use of a photoablation lithography process to be used during the subsequent patterning of the signal electrode layer.

In practice, it is preferred to apply the dielectric layer across the bottom portion of the piezoelectric stack as shown in FIG. 17 and subsequently to use a laser at a low fluence to trim away the dielectric in the active area and to create the smooth transition as shown in FIG. 18. Such a low fluence can safely and cleanly remove dielectric material without significantly ablating metal oxide powders, PZT, or the Cu metal on the flex circuit. In the non-limiting case of an Excimer laser, operating at 248 nm, a reasonable fluence is in the range of 0.5-1.5 J/cm². As described above, the formed opening in the dielectric layer defines the elevation of the array and the opening can have the following features: it can be narrower than the length of the first and second kerf slots relative to the short axis of the piezoelectric stack and/or it can be longer than the length of the plurality of first kerfs slots relative to the long axis of the piezoelectric.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the patterning of the signal electrode layer and the electrical interconnect to the flex circuit, or flex circuit pair, can be accomplished using conventional packaging techniques such as, but not limited to photolithography and wirebonding, anisotropic conducting films and tapes, or direct contact between the stack and the flex leadframe. However, it is preferred that the patterning of the signal electrode layer be accomplished using a plurality of steps that can be scaled to frequencies higher than 50 MHz within a minimal packaging footprint volume. In one aspect, the signal electrodes are created by the following general steps (which are described in more detail below): surface preparation for electrode by means of laser photoablation; vacuum depositing a blanket signal electrode and shorting the bottom surface of the stack to all of the traces of the flex circuit, i.e., shorting a 256 array element of the stack to all 256 traces of the flex circuit; and combining laser photoablation lithography and chemical etching to pattern the isolated electrodes into the sputtered metal. In one aspect, it is contemplated that each signal electrode will be formed from gold (Au) and will be about and between 0.5-1.5 μm thick; preferably about and between 0.6-1.2 um thick, and more preferably about and between 0.8-1.0 μn thick. The noted thickness for the gold electrodes allows the gold to behave like a macroscopic or bulk metal layer and have desired ductile and malleable properties, which increases the reliability of the device.

One will appreciate that a thin Cr, or Ti/W layer, of a few 100 Angstroms thick can be conventionally used as an adhesion layer, or that Nichrome is used as a diffusion barrier, when depositing a Au electrode. Conventionally, the thickness of these additional layers is very thin relative to the Au layer, and, in the case of alloying the metals by co-deposition, the amount of the alloy is not significant to impact the signal electrode patterning techniques described below. It is contemplated that all combinations of metal alloying is included when describing the patterning of the signal electrode.

Prior to depositing the signal electrode, a laser can be used to ensure that the desired portion of the bottom portion of the piezoelectric layer is fully exposed with no residual dielectric layer covering the piezoelectric in the active area. Further, the laser can pattern the dielectric layer that overlies the first kerf slots to form elevated ridges. One will appreciate that the formed ridges above the first kerfs slots, in the active area, will help reduce the thickness of the applied resist above the first kerf slots and allow the resist to pool above the piezoelectric. This aids in providing for clean kerf patterning of the signal electrode.

In another aspect, the laser can be used to form a shallow trench or sunken path that extends from each active element of the array to its designated copper trace on the flex circuit leadframe. The trenches in the dielectric from the active element to the flex circuit allow for resist to pool therein, which helps protect the Au during the patterning of the signal electrode. In yet another aspect, the laser can be used in this step to remove the dielectric material above the copper traces of the respective flex circuits and cleanly expose the copper traces.

Optionally, the laser can be used to create a “rough” textured surface on the portions of the array transducer that will be covered by the signal electrode. The textured surface can help to promote metal adhesion of the signal electrode to the surface, as described herein.

For an exemplary 256 element transducer array, the signal electrode layer forms a signal electrode pattern that is made of 256 isolated signal electrodes. In one aspect, each isolated signal electrode can have, in the active area of the stack, including the sloped transition to the dielectric layer, a minimum electrode gap, that is approximately as wide as the width of the first kerf slots between neighboring array elements. This electrode gap can extend from one side of the dielectric gap to the other and is preferably positioned substantially directly over the first kerf slots. Optionally, no electrode gap is required above the sub diced kerfs, i.e., the second kerf slots, because the sub diced piezoelectric bars are electrically shorted together as described above. In another aspect, on top of the dielectric layer, each isolated signal electrode can be terminated on the dielectric layer by removing the gold in between the two electrode gaps adjacent to each array element. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the termination pattern alternates from left to right for each adjacent element and matches the flex circuit leadframe. In an additional aspect, an extension of the termination pattern from the stack onto the flex circuit can be provided on the top of the dielectric to complete the isolation of each signal electrode from adjacent elements. As one will appreciate, the extension of the termination pattern also alternates from left to right such that the extension falls in between two adjacent leads on the flex circuit.

In one embodiment, after the conventional deposition of an Au layer to the prepared portions of the transducer, a multi-step laser ablation and etching process is used to create the intricate signal electrode pattern. In one exemplary aspect, the gold layer can be applied using conventional sputtering techniques. In a first step, a resist layer is applied to achieve a substantially even coat over the deposited gold layer. The stack may be tipped or rocked to help ensure that the resist coat is substantially even. In this aspect, it is contemplated that the resist will be allowed to dry at substantially room temperature. Elevated temperatures, below the soft baking temperature of the resist are also permitted provided that the temperature does not exceed the thermal budget or limits imposed by the materials and construct of the stack (for example and without limitation 50° C.). In a subsequent step, a laser, such as a laser using a low fluence of, for example, about 0.3 J/cm², can photoablate the resist over only the full signal electrode pattern, such as for example the full 256 array element signal electrode pattern. In a subsequent step, the signal electrode pattern is conventionally etched to thin the applied gold layer. Without limitation, this etching step can be exemplarily accomplished by warming the etching materials to 32° C. and etching for 3 minutes.

Subsequently, the laser can be applied substantially over the first kerf slots to help remove the majority of any residual metals that remain above the first kerf slots. Further, in this step, it is contemplated that a portion of the fill material therein the first kerf slot adjacent to the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer will be removed. As one will appreciate, this removal of the fill material will create shallow trenches in the fill material within the first kerf slots that extend below the plane of the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer. In one aspect, it is contemplated that the laser will use a medium fluence, i.e., about and between 0.3-0.8 J/cm², for this ablation step.

In a further aspect, it is contemplated that a general laser pass over the flex circuit and other potentially exposed areas at a low fluence level, i.e., about and between 0.3 and 0.4 J/cm², can be accomplished after each laser ablation step. This low fluence pass of the laser can help ensure that any residual, undesired post etched sputtered gold has been removed.

In an optional additional step, the laser can be additionally be applied at a high fluence for a minimal number of pulses over the first kerf slots and over the termination pattern to remove any burs that may have persisted at this stage of the signal electrode formation process. As one will appreciate, any sunken feature that had previously been formed can aid in protecting the deposited signal electrodes from the plasma plume created during the elevated fluence laser ablation process.

As one will appreciate, after the processing described above, each signal electrode is operatively mounted to the transducer and is electrically coupled to both an individual circuit of the flex circuit and an individual array element. Optionally, the signal electrodes are tested for shorts so that any short can be identified and targeted rework can be accomplished to rectify the identified shorts.

Optionally, an additional etching step can be performed to debur the signal electrode pattern. Without limitation, this etching step can be accomplished by warming the etching materials to 32° C. and etching for 1 minute. This step can aid in removing any final residuals that could risk causing shorts when the backing layer is applied. Finally, the resist is cleaned from the transducer/support member/flex circuit assembly, i.e., the array assembly, and the signal electrodes are again tested for shorts so that any short can be identified and targeted rework can be accomplished to rectify the identified shorts.

As shown in FIG. 21, the backing layer is applied to complete the array assembly. In one aspect, the backing layer can be positioned to cover and to extend beyond the active area of the stack. In a further aspect, the backing layer can substantially fill the cavity that is defined therein the support member between the respective inner surfaces of the first and second longitudinally extending side edge portions of the support member.

In an additional step and referring to FIGS. 22A and 22B, the signal return path from the stack to the coupled flex circuits should be operably coupled prior to the formation of the signal electrodes. This allows for the electrical integrity of the signal electrode to be tested after the signal electrode pattern has been created. In one aspect a conductive material, such as, copper tape and the like, is positioned on the array assembly to electrically couple the respective first and second ground electrodes to the respective grounds on the flex circuits. The copper tape can be bonded with additional conductive epoxy material or low temperature solder to form a reliable electrical contact. Thus, in one example, the signal return path from the assembly extends generally parallel to the kerfs to the end of the stack, up through the conductive epoxy bond line into the copper foil and then onto the flex circuit via the additional conductive path of the exemplary copper tape.

As discussed above, depending on the desired frequency of operation for a transducer, the distance between adjacent transducer elements in an ultrasonic transducer array can be required to be smaller than the minimum distance at which manufacturers can create traces in a printed flex circuit. One solution to this problem is to use two printed flex circuits to connect to opposite sides of the transducer elements as discussed above. In this case, one printed flex circuit has traces that connect to even numbered transducer elements while the other printed flex circuit has traces that connect to odd numbered transducer elements. In this manner, the traces of each printed flex circuit board only need to connect to every other transducer element, thereby allowing them to be placed farther apart on the printed flex circuit. While this method works well for some embodiments, there are transducer arrays where the pitch of the transducer elements is still too fine to connect every other transducer element to a trace on a printed flex circuit.

To address this problem, one embodiment of the disclosed technology connects the transducer elements to traces in a multi-layer printed flex circuit. This is particularly useful for embodiments of the technology that are designed to be formed into probes that enter a subject's body.

FIG. 24 illustrates an ultrasonic transducer assembly 1200 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technology that is designed to be incorporated into a probe for insertion into a subject. For example, the ultrasonic transducer assembly 1200 may be designed be incorporated into a vaginal or rectal probe. The transducer assembly 1200 generally includes an array of transducer elements 1220 that are separated by a small kerf. In the embodiment shown, the transducer array 1220 is generally rectangular in shape with a length dimension 1222 and a width dimension 1224 that is shorter than the length dimension. A pair of printed flex circuits 1240, 1260 are electrically and mechanically connected to the array of transducer elements 1220. The printed flex circuits 1240, 1260 have traces therein that are electrically coupled at a distal end to a transducer element and extend along the length of the flex circuits to connect at a proximal end to additional signal processing equipment (not shown).

In one embodiment, adjacent transducer elements in the transducer array are separated by a distance that is smaller than a minimum distance at which traces can be printed on a single layer of a printed flex circuit. In some embodiments, the traces of the printed flex circuits have to turn approximately 90 degrees between the points where they are electrically connected to a transducer element in order to extend along the length of the printed flex circuit. If an ultrasound transducer has 512 active transducer elements, then each printed flex circuit 1240, 1260 has to route 256 individual traces down its length. Because the size of the flex circuit is directly proportional to the number of conductive traces it carries, an increase in the width of the flex circuit causes a corresponding increase in the size of a probe that houses the flex circuits.

To address one or more of these problems, one embodiment of the disclosed technology uses multi-layer printed flex circuits to connect to the transducer elements. For example, if two-layer printed flex circuits are used, then each layer only needs to have traces that are spaced apart by the distance between 3 adjacent transducer elements (or 5 adjacent transducer elements if a two-layer printed flex circuit connects to only even or odd transducer elements). If three-layer printed flex circuits are used, the traces on any one layer need only be as close as the distance between 4 adjacent transducer elements (or 7 adjacent transducer elements if a printed flex circuit connects to only even or odd transducer elements). Similarly, if a four-layer printed flex circuit is used, then the traces on each layer of the printed flex circuit need only be as close as the distance between 5 adjacent transducer elements (or 9 adjacent transducer elements if the printed flex circuit connects to only even or odd transducer elements).

By allowing the traces to be spaced farther apart on the printed flex circuits, it is easier to manufacture and route the traces on the printed flex circuits. The traces of the different layers of the printed flex circuits can then be interleaved and aligned at the point where they connect to the transducer elements such that they have the correct pitch to connect to the transducer elements. However, within any single layer of the multi-layer printed flex circuit, the trace pitch can be greater than the transducer element pitch because adjacent traces within the single layer do not need to connect to adjacent transducer elements. Rather the traces may be separated by a distance that is proportional to the number of layers in the multi-layer printed circuit. In addition, the conductive traces of one layer are offset from the conductive traces of adjacent layers. This improves electrical isolation of the traces, thereby improving trace impedance and reducing signal cross-talk between traces. The printed flex circuit may also include one or more ground plane layers (not shown) between the signal trace layers to further reduce cross-talk.

By using multi-layer printed flex circuits, the size of the flex circuit within the probe is reduced by a factor equal to the number of layers in the multi-layer printed flex circuit. For example, if a four layer printed flex circuit is used, then the flex circuit width can be ¼ as wide as if a single layer printed flex circuit were used. This reduction in flex circuit width allows probes to be made thinner for improved patient comfort.

In one embodiment, the printed flex circuits may be manufactured with a lithography process to create the traces in each layer. The trace and ground plane layers are then interleaved, aligned and bonded together to form a multi-layer printed flex circuit.

FIG. 25 illustrates an exemplary ultrasonic transducer assembly 1200 where the array of transducer elements 1220 are electrically coupled to a four-layer printed flex circuit 1240. In the embodiment shown, the printed flex circuit 1240 has four layers 1242, 1244, 1246 and 1248 each having traces therein that are electrically coupled to a corresponding transducer element. In some cases, the transducer array 1220 has more transducer elements than there are traces in the multi-layer printed flex circuit. In addition, there may be traces in the printed flex circuit that do not carry signals. These additional dummy transducer elements in the array and traces in the printed flex circuit are typically found at the end of the transducer arrays and can help ensure the each active element in the transducer array has electrically similar neighbors.

In the example shown, the first active transducer element in the array is connected to a trace in the third layer 1246 of a multi-layer printed flex circuit on one side of the transducer array. The next active transducer element connects to a trace in the fourth layer 1248 in the multi-layer printed flex circuit on the same side of the transducer array. The next active transducer element connects to a trace in the first layer 1242 and the next active transducer element connects to a trace in the second layer 1244. In one embodiment, the pattern then repeats with the next active transducer element connecting to a trace on the third layer 1246 etc.

By using a four-layer printed flex circuit, the traces on any given layer need do not need to be spaced any closer than the distance between nine adjacent transducer elements (assuming the multi-layer printed flex circuit only connects to odd or even transducer elements). The traces on the various layers of the multi-layer printed flex circuit are interleaved and aligned such that they align with the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th etc. active transducer elements etc. Although not shown in FIG. 25, it will be appreciated that the traces in each layer turn approximately 90 degrees from the orientation where they are aligned with the individual transducer elements in order to run along the length of the printed flex circuit 1240.

In one embodiment, the traces from the various layers of the printed flex circuit are electrically coupled to a transducer element using the techniques described above. That is, the traces of the multi-layer flex circuit are placed in a frame and aligned with the transducer elements of the array. The flex circuit is then bonded at an angle to the ultrasonic transducer using a particulate (e.g. silica) filled epoxy. The epoxy is machined or molded such that there are no abrupt transitions formed between the transducer elements 1220 and the printed flex circuit.

A low fluence laser then cuts smooth trenches in the epoxy that extend down through the epoxy layer to the ultrasonic transducer elements and up the side of the multi-layer printed flex circuit. In the spot where the trench is positioned over the correct layer in the multi-layer flex circuit, the laser burns down though the epoxy to expose a portion of the conductive trace in that layer.

The trenches on the printed flex circuit and transducer elements are then sputtered covered with a very thin layer of conductive metal (e.g. gold or gold with a chromium adhesion layer). The conductive metal is then covered with a resist that is allowed to dry. A low fluence laser is then used to remove the dried resist in areas where the gold or other conductive metal is undesired (e.g. between the traces on the printed flex circuit and in the kerf regions between the transducer elements.

The exposed conductive metal is then mostly removed with a wet etch processes. Any remaining metal is then cleaned up and removed with one or more passes with a laser. Finally, the remaining resist that covers the areas where the conductive metal is desired is removed by dissolving it with a suitable solvent thereby leaving only a number of conductive metal lines that connect an ultrasound transducer element to a trace on a layer of the multi-layer printed flex circuit.

FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate a cross-sectional view of a multi-layer printed flex circuit 1240. In one embodiment, the printed flex circuit is held in place to the array of transducer elements by a frame 1300 that is angled at, for example, about 45 degrees to the plane of the front face of the transducer elements 1220. In one embodiment, the layers 1242, 1244, 1246 and 1248 of the multi-layer printed flex circuit have traces that extend to the edge of each layer. The layers are placed over each other and staggered so that they look like a staircase when viewed from the side. The traces in each layer are interleaved to align with the pitch of the transducer elements when viewed from above.

A silica filled epoxy 1270 is coated over the flex circuit to bond it to the ultrasound transducer and the frame 1300 as well as to add strength. A laser is then used to cut trenches 1272, 1274, 1276, 1278 into the epoxy 1270 to expose a portion of the copper (or other conductive metal) traces in the flex circuit 1240. Once the trenches are cut, they are coated with conductive metal film to electrically couple the traces to a corresponding transducer element as described above.

It is not required that two multi-layer printed flex circuits be used to connect to an ultrasound transducer array. Depending on the pitch of the transducer elements and the ability of the printed flex circuit fabricator to route traces in the flex circuit, a single multi-layer flex circuit can be used. FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of an ultrasonic transducer assembly where a number of ultrasonic transducer elements 1600 are connected to a single, two-layer printed flex circuit 1650. In this embodiment, the spacing between the traces on any layer of the two-layer printed flex circuit is the distance between three adjacent transducer elements. In such an embodiment, the traces in the first layer 1652 connect to the even transducer elements and the traces in the second layer 1654 connect to the odd transducer elements or vice versa. As will be appreciated, the printed flex circuit 1650 may also have more than two layers (e.g. three or more layers) if desired.

In order to reduce cross-talk between the leads that couple the transducer elements to the traces in the printed flex circuits, it may be desirable to reduce the width of the connections that connect the transducer elements to the traces in the flex circuit. As shown in FIG. 28, an ultrasonic transducer has an array of transducer elements 1220 that are connected by leads 1702, 1704, 1706 etc. to traces within a multi-layer printed flex circuit. If the connections were as wide as the transducer elements, they would be almost touching, which may contribute to cross-talk between the connections or impedance issues. Therefore, in one embodiment of the disclosed technology, the laser that cuts the trenches in the silica/epoxy mix makes the trenches narrower in the area of the printed flex circuit. In the example shown, it can be seen that the leads 1702, 1704 etc. are narrower than the transducer elements to which they are connected.

It is also not required that the traces in the printed flex circuits run in a direction that is generally parallel to the length of the ultrasonic transducer. FIG. 29 shows an exemplary four-layer printed flex circuit 1800 having traces therein that extend in a direction that is generally aligned with the width of the transducer. The printed flex circuit 1800 can be used in environments where it is not necessary to have a side firing transducer array. The multi-level printed flex circuit 1800 still allows the traces of each layer of the flex circuit to be positioned farther apart than the distance between adjacent transducer elements in the transducer array.

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

Throughout this application, various publications are referenced. The disclosures of these publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosed technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosed technology. Other embodiments of the disclosed technology will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed technology disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosed technology being indicated by the following claims. 

We claim:
 1. An ultrasonic transducer assembly comprising: a transducer array comprising a number of spaced transducer elements; at least one printed flex circuit including two or more overlaid stepped trace layers, each trace layer having a plurality of conductive traces therein the ends of which are electrically coupled to a corresponding transducer element, wherein alternating ends of the conductive traces in the overlaid trace layers are spaced at different distances from the transducer elements and wherein the distance between traces in any single trace layer at a point where the traces are coupled to the transducer elements are spaced farther apart than a distance between adjacent transducer elements in the transducer array; and a plurality of interconnections, each interconnection electrically coupling a conductive trace in a trace layer of the printed flex circuit to a corresponding transducer element.
 2. The ultrasonic transducer assembly of claim 1, wherein the interconnections have a width that is narrower than a width of the transducer elements to which they are connected.
 3. The ultrasonic transducer assembly of claim 1, wherein the transducer array has a length and a width that is shorter than the length, and wherein the printed flex circuit has traces therein that extend along the printed flex circuit in a direction that is generally parallel to the length of the transducer array.
 4. The ultrasonic transducer assembly of claim 1, wherein the transducer array has a length and a width that is shorter than the length, and wherein the printed flex circuit has traces therein that generally extend in a direction of the width of the transducer array.
 5. The ultrasonic transducer assembly of claim 1, wherein the transducer assembly includes a single printed flex circuit connected to one side of the transducer elements.
 6. The ultrasonic transducer assembly of claim 1, wherein the transducer assembly includes two printed flex circuits connected to opposite sides of the transducer elements.
 7. The ultrasonic transducer assembly of claim 1, wherein the printed flex circuit includes at least one ground plane that separates at least two layers of the plurality of trace layers.
 8. The ultrasonic transducer assembly of claim 1, wherein adjacent transducer elements of the transducer array are electrically connected to conductive traces disposed in different trace layers of the printed flex circuit. 